Mathilde. Love often comes in that way—especially to the one who has been made uneasy.
Axel. And you are to be the scapegoat?
Mathilde. I am accustomed to that.
Axel (quickly, as he comes nearer to her). You must have known love yourself, Mathilde?
Mathilde (starts, then says). Yes, I have loved too.
Axel. Unhappily?
Mathilde. Not happily. But why do you ask?
Axel. Those who have been through such an experience are less selfish than the rest of us and are capable of more.
Mathilde. Yes. Love is always a consecration, but not always for the same kind of service.
Axel. Sometimes it only brings unhappiness.